Supporting New Business Models: Niigata's 'Venture Creation Program' Now Open for Applications

The Niigata Industrial Creation Organization (NICO), which supports challenging local companies with a mission to 'energize Niigata's industry,' has launched a recruitment call for its 'Venture Creation Program' to support innovative challenges aimed at creating new business models.

This program strongly supports not only digital startups but also businesses undertaking 'second startups'—those leveraging their unique strengths to enter new fields or markets.

Additionally, NICO has established the 'NICO Startup Cafe,' where entrepreneurs tackling innovative business ideas can easily consult with NICO staff and industry experts.

If you have a concept for a 'Niigata-born venture' that leverages IT and technology to extend the strengths of local companies, please feel free to inquire.

■ Venture Creation Program
URL: https://www.nico.or.jp/sien/hojokin/87017/

1. Target Projects & Funding Amount
Eligible projects: Those expected to achieve the following based on unique techniques or ideas:
(1) Revitalization of local businesses
(2) Creation of new employment within the prefecture
(3) Significant impact on the improvement of the local economy
Grant amount: Up to 5 million yen
Grant rate: Within 2/3 of eligible expenses
Grant period: Maximum 1 year from the grant decision date

2. Eligible Expenses
Business base development: Costs for 'launching and implementation' of the business
(1) Purchase of machinery, equipment, tools, etc.
(2) Renovation costs for business premises
(3) Miscellaneous equipment costs
(4) Corporate registration fees (excluding stamps and registration license taxes)
(5) Shipping and communication costs
(6) Rent
* Real estate acquisition, new construction, demolition, and removal costs are not eligible.
Business promotion costs: Costs for 'verification and progression' of the business
(1) Raw materials and subcontracting costs (for prototypes, etc.)
(2) Outsourcing costs
(3) Advertising costs
(4) Material purchase costs
(5) Market research costs
(6) Honoraria for experts

3. Application Period
May 19, 2026 (Tue) – June 16, 2026 (Tue), must be received by 17:00.

■ Use Case Examples
We are looking for entrepreneurs tackling high-venture-potential startups or second startups.
1. Starting a Business
Ventures or startups aiming to launch innovative products requiring R&D.
(Example) Developing a new IT system through cutting-edge joint research with universities and aiming for social implementation.
(Example) Establishing unprecedented IT/AI utilization methods and aiming for social implementation as a new commodity.
2. Second Startup
Businesses constructing new business models by leveraging existing strengths.
(Example) Manufacturing: Elevating accumulated expertise/craftsmanship into new commodities/services using tech to create new markets.
(Example) Wholesale: Opening new needs for local Niigata specialties using tech/advanced expertise, establishing new logistics, sales channels, and information dissemination.

■ Pre-Startup Support Menu
For those seeking objective feedback on their business plans, NICO offers a full line-up of support, from the 'NICO Startup Cafe' for initial consultations to the 'Business Plan Brush-up Support Project' for deep planning with experts. Please feel free to contact us.